Cycling on paths not included in penalties
FAMILIES who cycle to school with their young children will be permitted to continue to use footpaths without fear of being penalised.
Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe will this week announce plans to bring up to three dozen cycling offences under the fixed charge notices system.
For the first time, cyclists found breaking the rules of the road will be sent €40 fines in the post and handed fines under the same system that applies to motorists.
But it's understood that Mr Donohoe has decided to omit the offence of cycling on footpaths for fear it will pose difficulties for young families in particular.
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Sources say Mr Donohoe also wants to avoid a situation whereby people are discouraged from taking up cycling as a result of the new penalties.
Instead, the offence of 'cyclist driving a pedal cycle without reasonable consideration' is to be brought under the Fixed Charge Notice system.
This will allow gardai to deal with those who are cycling in a reckless or aggressive manner on footpaths without consideration for pedestrians.
It's believed that Mr Donohoe has taken the decision to exclude the offence of cycling on footpaths after consultations with gardai and road safety chiefs.
But up to 36 offences will be brought under the new regime, including breaking red lights and cycling the wrong way on the road.